Josese Cagica started his business in 2020 during COVID-19, operating from home with family support.
Two years later, he opened a small retail shop in Navosai, which quickly expanded into a larger bakery just after a period of three months.
The business which is called ‘The Cake Lab’, now includes a fully operational commercial shop with a commercial kitchen.
Mr Cagica said the bakery produces breads and cakes, and offers catering services for corporate events and major events in Fiji, such as the Fiji Showcase and homecoming concerts.
They also participate in various market events like Rock Markets in Garden City, the Fiji Day celebration at Albert Park, and the Nasinu Carnivals and also the Hibiscus Festival which took place these past few months.
Mr Cagica said the business also provides bread services to the local community.
He faced significant challenges due to his lack of business background, having primarily worked in the hotel industry for over 10 years.
His entrepreneurial journey has been one of learning, growth, and personal transformation.
In order to run a successful and legitimate business, Mr Cagica said he had to quickly learn and understand the core aspects of business operations, especially in areas he was previously unfamiliar with.
“This included financial management, accurate record-keeping, and compliance with government regulations.”
“To ensure the smooth operation and legitimacy of my business, I took the time to familiarise myself with the rules and expectations of key regulatory bodies such as the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF), the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS), and the Ministry of Employment.”
Mr Cagica said understanding these requirements was not only necessary for staying within legal boundaries but also essential for building a trustworthy and professional business.
“It involved tasks like registering the business, maintaining proper financial records, and ensuring contributions and taxes were correctly filed and paid.”
Although the learning curve was steep, Mr Cagica said he embraced it as an opportunity for growth.
These skills helped him manage his operations more efficiently, plan for the future, and avoid unnecessary legal or financial pitfalls.
“Learning how to navigate compliance and financial processes also allowed me to explore business expansion with more confidence,” he said.
On a personal level, Mr Cagica shared that the business has been a life-changing experience for him.
It provided him with a valuable platform to showcase his talents and skills.
He said it has paved the way toward financial independence.
Mr Cagica said he has not only grown professionally but also personally.
“The challenges I faced became lessons, and the successes I’ve achieved gave me motivation to keep pushing forward.”
He said the exposure gained from running his business has also helped him build new networks, connect with other entrepreneurs, and gain insights that continue to inspire him.
The Cake Lab staff members. Picture: FACEBOOK
Although the learning curve was steep, Josese Cagica said he embraced it as an opportunity for growth. Picture: FACEBOOK
Right: Josese Cagica said the business also provides bread services to the local community.
Picture: FACEBOOK
